New Delhi, July 16 (H.S.): 'Oil boards' will be installed in schools nationwide to increase awareness among students and teachers regarding excess oil in food and its harmful effects, promoting fitness. This directive comes from the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) due to rising obesity rates in India. The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5, 2019-21) indicates that one in five urban adults is overweight or obese.

A 2025 report in The Lancet highlights that 180 million Indian adults were overweight or obese in 2021, a number projected to reach 449 million by 2050, positioning India as the second-most affected country globally. The letter from Director of Education Dr. Pragya M. Singh advocates for various measures, including the installation of static or digital 'oil boards' in school public areas to display the dangers of excess oil.

Health messages will also be printed on school stationery to motivate the community against obesity. Schools must provide healthy food options, promote physical activities, and encourage students to engage in creating these boards for experiential learning. Resources such as videos and posters are available on the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India’s official YouTube channel. The initiative aims to enhance health awareness on campuses and foster habits of a balanced diet and regular exercise from an early age.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar